I’ve been reporting on streaming services for over 14 years.
I often hear people say that streaming has become just like cable, but I disagree. First, there have never been more ways to watch completely for free, thanks to services like Tubi and Pluto. Even the Super Bowl was streamed for free. Second, there are cord-cutting services working hard to keep prices in check—even while offering premium live TV channels like ESPN.
That’s why I always say the key to keeping streaming affordable isn’t subscribing to the cheapest plan, but subscribing to only one service at a time. All of these streaming platforms can be canceled without notice. So get whichever one you need, cancel it when you're done, and then move on to the next.
Here are some of the most affordable for live TV:
- Sling Orange is the cheapest for premium channels like ESPN
- Sling Blue is the cheapest for local channels
- DirecTV Stream is the cheapest for regional sports networks (RSNs) + ESPN + FOX
- Philo is the cheapest for general live TV
There are also completely free streaming services, which I cover in detail in this list.